Jetting Technology for Additive Manufacturing in 2025: Unleashing Precision, Speed, and Market Expansion. Explore How Jetting is Shaping the Future of 3D Printing Over the Next Five Years.

Executive Summary: Key Findings and Market Highlights
Introduction to Jetting Technology in Additive Manufacturing
Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Volume Projections
Competitive Landscape: Leading Players, Startups, and Strategic Alliances
Technological Advancements: Printhead Innovations, Materials, and Process Optimization
Application Analysis: Aerospace, Healthcare, Automotive, Electronics, and More
Regional Market Trends: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Emerging Markets
Drivers and Challenges: Market Catalysts, Barriers, and Regulatory Factors
Investment and Funding Trends in Jetting AM
Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends, New Entrants, and Market Opportunities (2025–2030)
Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations
Sources & References

Executive Summary: Key Findings and Market Highlights

Jetting technology for additive manufacturing (AM) continues to gain momentum as a versatile and high-precision method for producing complex parts across industries. In 2025, the market is characterized by rapid advancements in printhead design, material compatibility, and process automation, driving both adoption and innovation. Jetting-based AM processes, such as material jetting and binder jetting, are increasingly favored for their ability to deliver fine feature resolution, multi-material capabilities, and high throughput, making them suitable for applications in aerospace, healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods.

Key findings indicate that leading manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to expand the range of printable materials, including metals, ceramics, and advanced polymers. Companies such as Stratasys Ltd. and HP Inc. have introduced new jetting platforms that offer improved speed, accuracy, and scalability, addressing the growing demand for both prototyping and end-use part production. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into jetting systems is enhancing process control and quality assurance, reducing waste and operational costs.

The market is also witnessing increased collaboration between technology providers and end-users to develop application-specific solutions. For example, GE Additive and voxeljet AG are working closely with partners in the aerospace and automotive sectors to tailor jetting processes for lightweight, high-performance components. Regulatory bodies and industry organizations, such as ASTM International, are actively developing standards to ensure the reliability and repeatability of jetting-based AM, further supporting market growth.

Overall, the jetting technology segment is poised for robust expansion in 2025, driven by technological breakthroughs, expanding material portfolios, and the growing acceptance of additive manufacturing for serial production. The competitive landscape is marked by both established players and innovative startups, fostering a dynamic environment that is expected to accelerate the adoption of jetting technologies in the coming years.

Introduction to Jetting Technology in Additive Manufacturing

Jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) represents a family of processes that build three-dimensional objects by selectively depositing droplets of material layer by layer. Unlike extrusion-based or powder bed fusion methods, jetting technologies utilize printheads—similar to those found in inkjet printers—to precisely control the placement of build materials, which can include photopolymers, metals, ceramics, or even biological substances. This approach enables the creation of highly detailed and complex geometries, often with multiple materials or colors in a single build.

The most prominent jetting-based AM processes include Material Jetting (MJ), Binder Jetting (BJ), and Nanoparticle Jetting (NPJ). In Material Jetting, droplets of photopolymer are deposited and cured with ultraviolet light, allowing for smooth surface finishes and fine feature resolution. Binder Jetting, on the other hand, involves the selective deposition of a liquid binding agent onto a powder bed, which is later cured and sintered to form the final part. Nanoparticle Jetting uses suspensions of nanoparticles, such as metals or ceramics, which are jetted and then consolidated through post-processing steps.

Jetting technologies are valued for their versatility and precision. They are widely used in industries such as dental, jewelry, aerospace, and prototyping, where high accuracy and the ability to combine materials are critical. For example, Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc. have developed advanced material jetting platforms capable of producing multi-material, full-color parts with intricate details. Similarly, voxeljet AG and ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal) are leaders in binder jetting systems for industrial applications.

As of 2025, ongoing research and development are expanding the capabilities of jetting technologies, including improvements in printhead design, material formulations, and process control. These advancements are driving broader adoption in both prototyping and end-use part production, positioning jetting as a key technology in the evolving landscape of additive manufacturing.

Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR, Revenue, and Volume Projections

The market for jetting technology in additive manufacturing is poised for significant expansion between 2025 and 2030, driven by advancements in material science, increased adoption across industries, and the growing demand for high-precision, multi-material 3D printing. Jetting technology, which includes material jetting and binder jetting processes, is particularly valued for its ability to produce complex geometries with fine detail and smooth surface finishes, making it attractive for sectors such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods.

According to industry projections, the global jetting technology for additive manufacturing market is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 18–22% during the forecast period. This robust growth is underpinned by the increasing integration of jetting-based 3D printers in both prototyping and end-use part production, as well as ongoing innovations in printhead design and compatible materials. Revenue generated by this segment is anticipated to surpass USD 2.5 billion by 2030, up from an estimated USD 1 billion in 2025, reflecting both the rising unit sales of jetting systems and the expanding market for consumables such as inks, binders, and specialty powders.

Volume projections indicate a steady increase in the number of jetting-based additive manufacturing systems deployed globally. By 2030, annual shipments of jetting 3D printers are expected to exceed 10,000 units, with a notable shift toward industrial-scale installations and multi-material capabilities. The Asia-Pacific region is forecasted to exhibit the fastest growth, fueled by manufacturing investments and government initiatives supporting advanced manufacturing technologies. North America and Europe will continue to represent significant market shares, driven by established players and ongoing research and development activities.

Key industry leaders such as Stratasys Ltd., HP Inc., and voxeljet AG are expected to maintain their dominance through continuous innovation and strategic partnerships. Additionally, the entry of new players and the expansion of application areas—such as dental, jewelry, and electronics—will further contribute to market growth. As the technology matures, improvements in speed, resolution, and material diversity are likely to accelerate adoption, solidifying jetting technology’s role in the future of additive manufacturing.

Competitive Landscape: Leading Players, Startups, and Strategic Alliances

The competitive landscape of jetting technology for additive manufacturing in 2025 is characterized by a dynamic mix of established industry leaders, innovative startups, and a growing number of strategic alliances. Major players such as Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems Corporation continue to dominate the market, leveraging their extensive patent portfolios, global distribution networks, and robust R&D capabilities. These companies have expanded their jetting technology offerings, focusing on multi-material printing, higher resolution, and increased throughput to address the evolving needs of industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive.

Startups are playing a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of jetting technology. Companies like XJet Ltd. have introduced novel approaches such as NanoParticle Jetting, enabling the production of highly detailed ceramic and metal parts. Other emerging firms are focusing on specialized applications, such as bioprinting and electronics, often targeting niche markets overlooked by larger competitors. These startups frequently collaborate with research institutions and industrial partners to accelerate innovation and commercialization.

Strategic alliances and partnerships are increasingly shaping the competitive dynamics of the sector. Collaborations between printer manufacturers, material suppliers, and end-users are common, aiming to optimize material formulations, improve print quality, and expand the range of printable materials. For example, HP Inc. has formed alliances with chemical companies and industrial manufacturers to enhance its Multi Jet Fusion platform, broadening its application scope and material compatibility. Similarly, GE Additive has partnered with aerospace and medical device companies to co-develop jetting-based solutions tailored to specific industry requirements.

The competitive landscape is further influenced by the entry of traditional manufacturing giants and electronics companies, who are investing in jetting technology to diversify their portfolios and capture new market opportunities. This influx of capital and expertise is accelerating the pace of innovation and driving consolidation, as larger firms acquire promising startups to gain access to proprietary technologies and specialized talent.

Overall, the jetting technology segment in additive manufacturing is marked by intense competition, rapid technological advancements, and a collaborative ecosystem that fosters both incremental improvements and disruptive breakthroughs.

Technological Advancements: Printhead Innovations, Materials, and Process Optimization

Jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) has experienced significant advancements in recent years, particularly in the areas of printhead design, material development, and process optimization. These innovations are driving improvements in resolution, speed, and material versatility, making jetting-based AM increasingly viable for both prototyping and end-use part production.

Printhead innovations have been central to these advancements. Modern printheads now feature higher nozzle densities, improved actuation mechanisms, and enhanced thermal management, enabling finer droplet control and higher throughput. For example, the latest piezoelectric printheads from Xaar plc and Stratasys Ltd. offer multi-material jetting capabilities and support for a broader range of viscosities, allowing for the deposition of functional materials such as conductive inks, ceramics, and photopolymers. These improvements have also reduced maintenance requirements and increased printhead lifespans, contributing to lower operational costs.

Material development has kept pace with hardware innovations. The introduction of new photopolymers, UV-curable resins, and nanoparticle suspensions has expanded the application range of jetting technology. Companies like DSM and Evonik Industries AG have developed advanced formulations that offer improved mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and thermal stability. Multi-material jetting, enabled by sophisticated printhead architectures, allows for the creation of parts with graded properties, embedded electronics, or complex color patterns in a single build process.

Process optimization is another area of rapid progress. Advanced software algorithms now manage droplet placement, curing strategies, and real-time feedback from in-situ sensors. These systems, developed by companies such as 3D Systems, Inc., enable adaptive layer-by-layer control, reducing defects and improving part accuracy. Machine learning techniques are increasingly being integrated to predict and compensate for process deviations, further enhancing reliability and repeatability.

Collectively, these technological advancements are positioning jetting technology as a leading solution for high-precision, multi-material additive manufacturing. As research continues into new materials and smarter process controls, jetting-based AM is expected to play a pivotal role in industries ranging from healthcare to electronics and aerospace in 2025 and beyond.

Application Analysis: Aerospace, Healthcare, Automotive, Electronics, and More

Jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) has rapidly evolved, enabling precise deposition of materials in a droplet-wise fashion to build complex geometries layer by layer. Its versatility has led to adoption across a range of industries, each leveraging the unique benefits of jetting for specific applications.

Aerospace: The aerospace sector utilizes jetting technology for prototyping lightweight components, intricate ducting, and even functional parts. The ability to process high-performance polymers and metals with fine resolution supports the production of components with complex internal structures, reducing weight while maintaining strength. Companies like The Boeing Company and Airbus SE have explored jetting-based AM for both tooling and end-use parts, aiming to streamline supply chains and accelerate design iterations.
Healthcare: In healthcare, jetting technology is instrumental in fabricating patient-specific implants, dental prosthetics, and anatomical models. Its high precision and ability to process biocompatible materials make it suitable for custom medical devices. Organizations such as Stratasys Ltd. have developed multi-material jetting systems that allow for the creation of models with varying mechanical properties, aiding in surgical planning and education.
Automotive: The automotive industry benefits from jetting technology for rapid prototyping, tooling, and the production of small-batch or customized components. The technology’s speed and material versatility enable manufacturers like BMW Group to iterate designs quickly and produce functional prototypes for testing, as well as end-use parts for luxury or concept vehicles.
Electronics: Jetting-based AM is increasingly used in electronics for the fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs), antennas, and microfluidic devices. The precise deposition of conductive inks and dielectric materials allows for the creation of complex, miniaturized electronic components. Companies such as Nano Dimension Ltd. specialize in jetting technology for electronics, enabling rapid prototyping and on-demand manufacturing of electronic devices.
Other Applications: Beyond these sectors, jetting technology finds use in fashion, architecture, and consumer goods, where customization and intricate design are valued. The ability to combine multiple materials and colors in a single build process opens new avenues for creative and functional product development.

As jetting technology continues to mature, its application base is expected to expand further, driven by ongoing advancements in printhead design, material science, and process control.

Regional Market Trends: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Emerging Markets

Regional market trends for jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) reflect varying levels of adoption, innovation, and investment across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and emerging markets. Each region demonstrates unique drivers and challenges that shape the trajectory of jetting-based AM solutions.

North America remains a global leader in jetting technology for AM, propelled by robust R&D activities, a strong presence of technology providers, and significant investments from aerospace, automotive, and healthcare sectors. The United States, in particular, benefits from the presence of major players such as Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc., which continue to advance material jetting and binder jetting platforms. The region’s focus on high-value, precision applications and rapid prototyping sustains demand, while government initiatives supporting advanced manufacturing further accelerate market growth.

Europe is characterized by a strong emphasis on industrialization and sustainability in AM. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront, with companies such as voxeljet AG and Renishaw plc driving innovation in binder jetting and multi-material jetting. The European Union’s regulatory frameworks and funding for digital manufacturing foster a collaborative ecosystem, encouraging the adoption of jetting technologies in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and medical devices. The region’s focus on eco-friendly materials and process efficiency is also shaping the evolution of jetting-based AM.

Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by expanding manufacturing bases in China, Japan, South Korea, and India. The region’s competitive advantage lies in cost-effective production, government incentives, and increasing investments in digital manufacturing infrastructure. Companies such as DM3D Technology and Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd. are enhancing the accessibility and versatility of jetting technologies. The adoption is particularly strong in consumer electronics, dental, and education sectors, with a growing focus on localizing supply chains and developing indigenous AM capabilities.

Emerging markets in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are gradually embracing jetting technology, primarily through partnerships with global AM providers and technology transfer initiatives. While adoption rates are currently lower due to limited infrastructure and high initial costs, increasing awareness and pilot projects in sectors like healthcare and construction are expected to drive future growth.

Drivers and Challenges: Market Catalysts, Barriers, and Regulatory Factors

Jetting technology, a subset of additive manufacturing (AM), is gaining traction due to its ability to deposit precise droplets of material, enabling high-resolution and multi-material 3D printing. Several drivers are catalyzing the adoption of jetting technology in AM. First, the demand for complex, customized components in industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics is rising, as jetting allows for intricate geometries and fine feature resolution. The technology’s compatibility with a wide range of materials—including photopolymers, metals, and ceramics—further broadens its application scope. Additionally, advancements in printhead design and material formulations are improving throughput and reliability, making jetting more attractive for both prototyping and low-volume production.

Another significant driver is the push for digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 integration. Jetting technology’s digital workflow enables rapid design iterations and on-demand production, aligning with the goals of flexible, decentralized manufacturing. Companies such as Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc. are investing in research and development to enhance jetting platforms, focusing on speed, accuracy, and material diversity.

However, several challenges temper the market’s growth. Material limitations remain a concern, as not all engineering-grade materials are suitable for jetting processes. Printhead clogging, droplet consistency, and post-processing requirements can impact part quality and production efficiency. Cost is another barrier, with high initial investments in equipment and ongoing expenses for proprietary materials and maintenance. Furthermore, scalability to mass production is still limited compared to traditional manufacturing methods.

Regulatory factors also play a pivotal role, especially in sectors like medical devices and aerospace, where part certification and traceability are critical. Organizations such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are developing guidelines for additive manufacturing, but the evolving regulatory landscape can create uncertainty for manufacturers. Standardization efforts by bodies like ASTM International are helping to establish best practices, but widespread adoption of jetting technology will depend on continued progress in material qualification, process validation, and compliance frameworks.

Investment and Funding Trends in Jetting AM

Investment and funding trends in jetting technology for additive manufacturing (AM) have evolved significantly as the sector matures and diversifies. Over the past few years, venture capital, corporate investment, and government grants have increasingly targeted jetting AM startups and established players, reflecting confidence in the technology’s potential for industrial-scale applications. Notably, the focus has shifted from early-stage research and prototyping to commercialization, scalability, and integration into end-use manufacturing.

Key industry leaders such as Stratasys Ltd. and HP Inc. have continued to invest heavily in the development and expansion of their jetting-based AM platforms, including material jetting and binder jetting systems. These investments are often directed toward enhancing print speed, material diversity, and part quality, as well as expanding software ecosystems to support digital manufacturing workflows. Strategic acquisitions and partnerships have also played a role, with larger companies acquiring innovative startups to accelerate technology adoption and broaden their intellectual property portfolios.

Venture capital funding has flowed into emerging companies specializing in novel jetting processes, such as multi-material and high-speed binder jetting. For example, voxeljet AG and ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal, Inc.) have attracted significant investment to scale up production capabilities and enter new markets, particularly in automotive, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. These investments are often accompanied by collaborations with industrial partners to validate and deploy jetting AM in real-world manufacturing environments.

Government funding and public-private partnerships have also played a crucial role, especially in regions prioritizing advanced manufacturing. Initiatives from organizations like National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the European Union’s Horizon programs have provided grants and research funding to accelerate innovation in jetting AM, focusing on process reliability, standardization, and workforce development.

Looking ahead to 2025, the investment landscape is expected to remain robust, with increased emphasis on sustainable materials, digital supply chains, and the integration of artificial intelligence for process optimization. As jetting AM technologies continue to demonstrate value in high-volume and high-value applications, both private and public funding are likely to drive further advancements and broader adoption across industries.

Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends, New Entrants, and Market Opportunities (2025–2030)

The future outlook for jetting technology in additive manufacturing (AM) from 2025 to 2030 is marked by rapid innovation, disruptive trends, and the entrance of new players, all of which are poised to reshape the competitive landscape. Jetting-based AM processes, such as material jetting and binder jetting, are expected to benefit from advances in printhead design, multi-material capabilities, and process automation. These improvements will enable higher resolution, faster build speeds, and the ability to fabricate complex, functionally graded parts, expanding the technology’s reach into industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics.

One of the most significant disruptive trends is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into jetting systems. These technologies will optimize print parameters in real time, reduce material waste, and improve part quality. Additionally, the development of new jettable materials—including high-performance polymers, ceramics, and metal alloys—will open up applications previously inaccessible to jetting technologies. Companies like Stratasys Ltd. and HP Inc. are already investing heavily in expanding their material portfolios and refining their jetting platforms to address these emerging needs.

The period from 2025 to 2030 is also expected to see the entry of new market participants, particularly startups and established companies from adjacent sectors such as inkjet printing and materials science. These entrants are likely to introduce novel printhead architectures, scalable production systems, and innovative business models, such as on-demand manufacturing and distributed production networks. This influx of innovation will intensify competition and drive down costs, making jetting-based AM more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Market opportunities will be especially prominent in sectors requiring high customization and short lead times. For example, the medical device industry is anticipated to leverage jetting technology for patient-specific implants and surgical guides, while the electronics sector will benefit from the ability to print multi-material, multi-layered components. Partnerships between technology providers, material suppliers, and end-users—such as those fostered by GE Additive—will be crucial in accelerating the adoption of jetting AM solutions.

Overall, the next five years will be transformative for jetting technology in additive manufacturing, with disruptive trends and new entrants creating a dynamic market landscape and unlocking significant opportunities across diverse industries.

Conclusion and Strategic Recommendations

Jetting technology has emerged as a pivotal method within the additive manufacturing (AM) landscape, offering unique advantages in terms of material versatility, precision, and scalability. As of 2025, advancements in printhead design, ink formulation, and process control have significantly expanded the range of applications for jetting-based AM, from rapid prototyping to end-use part production in industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics. The ability to deposit multiple materials and achieve high-resolution features positions jetting as a key enabler for complex, multi-functional components.

Despite these strengths, challenges remain. Material compatibility, especially for high-performance polymers and metals, continues to limit broader adoption. Printhead reliability and maintenance, as well as the need for post-processing, also present operational hurdles. However, ongoing research and collaboration between technology providers and end-users are steadily addressing these issues. For instance, partnerships with organizations like Stratasys Ltd. and HP Inc. have led to the development of more robust jetting systems and expanded material portfolios.

Strategically, companies seeking to leverage jetting technology should focus on the following recommendations:

Invest in Material Development: Collaborate with material suppliers and research institutions to expand the range of printable materials, particularly those with functional or high-performance properties.
Enhance Process Automation: Integrate advanced monitoring and control systems to improve print quality, reduce downtime, and enable real-time defect detection.
Foster Industry Partnerships: Engage with established AM leaders such as 3D Systems, Inc. and standards organizations like ASTM International to accelerate technology adoption and ensure compliance with evolving industry standards.
Target High-Value Applications: Prioritize sectors where jetting’s unique capabilities—such as multi-material deposition and fine feature resolution—offer clear competitive advantages, including medical devices, electronics, and customized consumer products.

In conclusion, jetting technology is poised for continued growth and innovation in additive manufacturing. By addressing current limitations and strategically investing in key areas, stakeholders can unlock new opportunities and drive the next wave of AM adoption.

Sources & References

Material Jetting 3D Printing Unveiled #3dprintingtechnology #3dprinting #3dprint #3dprinters

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Jetting Technology for Additive Manufacturing 2025: Disruptive Growth & Next-Gen Innovations Unveiled

ByQuinn Parker